Basics of photography

Submitted by WhiteWall Team

landscape

Introduction to photography

The introduction to photography teaches beginners the basics such as camera settings, exposure, focus and composition in order to develop solid technical skills. This initial knowledge forms the basis for working effectively with light and creating aesthetically pleasing images.

Submitted by WhiteWall Team

Close-up of a camera body with the lens removed, showing the rectangular image sensor and the surrounding electrical contacts.

Understanding the camera

The added value of the content lies in the fact that learners can explore the technical components and functions of a camera, such as the sensor, lens and exposure settings, in detail. This knowledge enables photographers to use their equipment more effectively and improve image quality in a targeted manner.

Submitted by WhiteWall Team

Calm water, surrounded by snow-capped mountains. In the foreground, small red houses with a wooden footbridge, sky colored pink.

Basic camera techniques

The overview teaches basic techniques such as how to use exposure settings, focus and aperture control, which are essential for creating sharp and well-exposed photos in different lighting conditions. Basic composition rules are also introduced to help create visually appealing and balanced images.

Submitted by WhiteWall Team

A man in a black T-shirt holds a camera with a large white telephoto lens in front of a black background.

Lenses and their effect

Lenses determine the composition and sharpness as well as the angle of view and depth of field of a photo through their design, such as focal length and aperture. They allow photographers to express their creative vision by choosing a shallow depth of field for portraits, for example, or a wide field without distortion for landscape shots.

Submitted by WhiteWall Team

A green frog with red eyes sits on a colorful leaf, surrounded by a blurred green background.

Composition and design

The composition and design determine the effect of a photo. The targeted arrangement of image elements and the use of lines, shapes and colors create harmony and tension in the image. Techniques such as the rule of thirds and leading lines help to create aesthetically pleasing and expressive photographs.

Submitted by WhiteWall Team

Villages between green rice terraces. Sunlight filters through the mist over the hills.

Light and lighting

In photography, the choice of light source plays an important role in the quality and mood of an image. Photographers can choose between natural light, i.e. daylight, and artificial light sources such as flash units and continuous lighting. Both types of light have their specific advantages and disadvantages and influence the creative process and the end result in different ways.

Submitted by WhiteWall Team

Hilly landscape with the sun on the horizon on the left and the full moon in the sky on the right in clear weather.

Post-processing and image editing

In a first step, we will therefore give you a brief introduction to the terminology and explain what is actually involved in image editing. In the following articles, we will then introduce you to popular image editing software such as Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom as well as WhiteWall's award-winning mural configurator, basic editing techniques and useful tips and tricks for organizing and archiving images.

Submitted by WhiteWall Team

Two people in knitted sweaters are standing next to each other outdoors. The younger person rests their head on the shoulder of the older person.

Photography and law

Immerse yourself in the world of photography law and find out what photographers need to know to legally protect their work. Whether copyright, model contracts or publication rights and data protection - this chapter offers valuable insights into the legal basics. Learn how to protect your work, draw up legally compliant contracts and avoid potential legal pitfalls. Perfect for anyone who wants to publish their photographs with a solid legal foundation.

Submitted by WhiteWall expert Katharina Wergen

A sandy hill is reflected in a calm, blue body of water. There are a few trees on the hill, the sky is blue with light cloud formations.

Presentation and publication

Get valuable tips on how to present and publish your photographs. From print preparation and the selection of suitable print formats and media to exhibiting your work and creating an effective online presence - here you will find everything you need to showcase your images professionally and effectively.

Submitted by WhiteWall expert Katharina Wergen

An open book with black and white photographs. On the left is a small photo, on the right a large photo of waves in the sea. Background made of dark wood.

Further resources and practice

Discover further resources and practical tips to support you on your photographic journey. Here you'll find recommendations for inspiring books and online resources, workshops and courses to help you refine your technique, as well as communities and networks to connect with other photographers. In addition, creative photo projects and challenges offer a variety of approaches to expand your skills and implement new ideas.